Start Your Marathon Training With iFit
So...you want to run a marathon, but you’re not sure how to even start training for that mind-bending 26.2 miles. You’ve come to the right place! Running a marathon is no easy task, and it requires a strong mind, consistent training, and thoughtful preparation. Whether you’ve already begun your training or you’re just getting started, we have the perfect programs to help you succeed.
If you’re new to running, Zac Marion’s Intro to Running Series in Australia, Tommy Rivers Puzey’s Beginner Running Series in Portugal and Morocco, and Tommy Rivers Puzey’s 5K Training Series in Costa Rica are all great starting points. Tommy also has a 10K Series coming soon that’s a great follow-up to his 5K Series. You can preview the first workout here. And if you feel like you’re ready to tackle training for a full marathon, you can run with Ashley Paulson in the Boston Marathon Series!
Now, let’s cover some pointers that will enhance your training and help you achieve your marathon goals.
1. Progress slowly.
The general rule of thumb is to make progress in increments of 10%, so be sure to only increase your weekly mileage by 10%. This is a good way to avoid injuries like shin splints or tendonitis and to avoid doing too much too soon.
2. Eat what works for you.
When it comes to fueling your body for a marathon, there’s no right or wrong answer. The simple solution is to do what works for you, and to make sure it works. Focus on low fiber, low fat, high carbohydrate, and mild foods to avoid gastrointestinal issues. Be sure to eat the same breakfast you plan on eating race day on the mornings that you’re planning to complete a long training run. Think of it as giving your breakfast a test drive.
3. Stay hydrated.
When you’re running and training for a marathon, you’re constantly depleting your fluids. Be sure to replenish them! If you’re worried about your hydration on long runs, weigh yourself before and after your run. For every pound lost, drink 16–24 ounces.
4. Get enough sleep.
As often as you can, try to get at least seven hours of good, uninterrupted sleep. That’s when your body repairs your muscles and cells. It needs sleep to function at its best.
5. Visualize.
Do what the best athletes in the world do before a race. Envision yourself succeeding. During your training runs, and even when you’re laying down before bedtime, visualize how the race will feel, what the route is, where you’ll make moves, and how you’ll keep a good attitude. Positive self-talk and visualization is half the battle.
6. Dress for success.
A blister or chafing can ruin a race for you. It’s hard to run your best when you’re in pain, so practice running long distances in different weather conditions in your race day outfit. Also, use Body Glide or a similar anti-chafing balm for your body and compression socks for your feet. Many individuals will chafe on areas like the inner thighs, underarms, or nipples, so make sure you’re prepared.
7. Recover properly.
Even on your easy days, keep taking care of yourself! A quick ice bath can do wonders for sore legs, or try these foam rolling exercises. Even taking a walk or a short run the evening after a long run can be very beneficial, as it helps increase circulation and relieves soreness.
Good luck with your marathon, and be sure to tag #iFit on your success photo when you complete your race!
Training programs:
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Dash to the Finish Challenge: End the Year Strong with iFIT
We’ve reached the final stretch in iFIT’s Finish Strong journey, a three-month commitment to staying active, motivated, and focused through the end of the year. You’ve built your consistency, and now it’s time for the grand finale: the Dash to the Finish Challenge.This month is all about pushing to the finish line while celebrating how far you’ve come. Embrace the season, whether you’re walking through the holiday markets in Germany or feeling the Jingle Bell Burn in the iFIT Studio.It’s time to finish strong!Complete the workouts from your selected Challenge level by December 31, 2025 and you’ll earn this digital reward for your Trophy Case. Here are this month’s Challenges:Treadmill and elliptical workoutsWalking and Running: Finish strong this month with walks and runs! You’ll explore the famous holiday markets in Germany with Casey Gilbert, complete holiday-themed walks and runs in the iFIT Studio with Ashley Paulson, John Peel, Richard Biglia, Jesse Corbin, Pearl Fu, and Jonnie Gale, walk across a glacier in Argentina with John Peel, and wrap things up in Nepal with Ang Tshering Lama.Join the Dash to the Finish Challenge: Walk & RunCycling WorkoutsCycling: Cycle to the finish line this month! iFIT Trainer John Wessling will lead you through an interval ride and an endurance ride alongside a dog sled team in Alaska. Then, you’ll head to Colorado with iFIT Trainer Keith Gabel to explore the Devil’s Thumb Resort. Finally, iFIT Trainer Ashley McIvor will join you in Norway for a HIIT ride and strength ride that is sure to get you in the holiday spirit.Join the Dash to the Finish Challenge: CyclingRower WorkoutsRowing: iFIT Trainers Alex Gregory and Susan Francia will take you on an epic adventure this month! Join Alex in Wales for endurance and speed rowing workouts, then head to Canada for quick but effective training with Susan, focused on HIIT, power, and endurance.Join the Dash to the Finish Challenge: RowingStrength workoutsStrength: Build strength in the iFIT Studio and in Iceland this month! Catch the incredible dynamic duos of Hannah Eden and Paulo Barreto, John Peel and Ashley Paulson, and Hannah and Ashley, and a solo workout with Shannon Cooper for fun, holiday-themed workouts. iFIT Trainer Jonnie Gale will round things out with two strength-focused workouts in the stunning backdrop of Iceland.Join the Dash to the Finish Challenge: StrengthDisclaimer: The primary purpose of this blog post is to inform and entertain. Nothing on the post constitutes or is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided on the blog is solely at your own risk. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, and please consult your doctor or other health care provider before making any changes to your diet, sleep methods, daily activity, or fitness routine. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information available on this blog. iFIT assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage sustained by any recommendations, opinions, or advice given in this article. Always follow the safety precautions included in the owner’s manual of your fitness equipment.
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